Circa 1875 James Garfield ALS

Handwritten letter on two sides of a single sheet signed by James A. Garfield (1831-1881), twentieth President of the United States. In this undated letter, marked “Private” at the top, Garfield comments on a erroneous story published in the Philadelphia Times regarding his position on tariffs: “Dear Kevin – The story in the Star is a brief summary of what happened in Philadelphia Times of today – which is a pure fabrication – I don’t know where it came from – I did write to Russell Errett [Rep. Russell Errett, R-PA] in his attack in my views of the tariff – but I said not a word about the Speakership. In his reply he said not a word about Randall nor did he indicate any purpose to vote for any Democrat – I have no idea where the Jones story came. No one has seen Errett’s letter to me – I should not suppose he would make it public. Certainly I have not. Ever Yours. J. A. Garfield.” Both the text and signature have been scripted in black fountain pen and grade “9/10.” This letter was obviously written during Garfield’s long tenure in Congress (1863-1880) while serving as a representative from Ohio. At the 1880 Republican Convention he emerged as the “dark horse” nominee for President. He then narrowly defeated his Democratic opponent, Gen. Winfield Scott Hancock, in the general election. Garfield’s time in office was short, however, as he was mortally wounded by an assassin's bullet on July 2, 1881. He passed away two months later. The letter (5.5 x 7.5 inches) displays two horizontal folds and has been reinforced along the left border, otherwise in Excellent condition. LOA from James Spence/JSA. Reserve $200. Estimate $400/$600.SOLD FOR $940.00

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